by Anthony Labounty
Album Title: THE RETURN
Recording: UNLV Wind Orchestra
Conductor: Thomas G. Leslie
Publisher: Klavier K11217 Purchase CD
I am a huge fan of the UNLV Wind Orchestra and recordings like The Return justify my beliefs. Traveler by David Maslanka is the opening work and is a fine example of the composer’s distinctive style. Michael Daugherty’s Raise the Roof features timpanist Ted Atkatz as soloist. Sanctuary by Frank Ticheli is one of this prolific composer’s masterworks for winds & percussion. Bordello Nights is a work by Jenifer K. Bellor that showcases a jazz quintet with wind ensemble. The remaining two works are Return to the White City (Tom Davoren) and Triumph (Anthony Labounty); a pair of short concise works that would make ideal concert openers. A most satisfying recording professionally played, produced and edited.
